Sweet and salty is a winning combination. Kettle corn? Check. Trail mix with M&M's? So good. Candied bacon, peanut butter and chocolate, need we say more?
At downtown Mesa restaurant Que Chevere, the classic flavor combo sings in the Patacon. This Venezuelan sandwich switches out the bread for crispy, fried and flattened plantains. It traditionally comes with salted versions of the "bun" but at Que Chevere, pay $1 more and you can have the sandwich made with sweet plantains. Thanks to our server's recommendation, we opted for the upcharge. And we are so glad we did.
The sandwich is enormous, filled with pulled beef and chicken, a pile of shredded lettuce and cheddar cheese all drizzled in fry sauce and cilantro salsa. The hearty dish hits the table with a thud and the mountain of food requires a knife and fork.
In the more savory version, the salted plantains are fried to a crisp. They maintain their shape and have enough structural integrity that you just may be able to pick up the sandwich to take a bite. But the sweet plantains are much softer, draping over the shredded meats like a blanket.
Despite being difficult to eat, the textures and flavors work beautifully once they hit your mouth. The plantain bun is sweet and soft with charred edges that taste of caramel. They contrast against the salty, rich beef and chicken. Fry sauce adds some creaminess and a little tang, lettuce provides some fresh crunch and the melted cheese holds everything together. Pile a little of everything onto your fork for a perfectly balanced bite.
Que Chevere is owned by Maria Fernanda, who is from Barquisimeto, Venezuela and Orvid Cutler. Together, they share the flavors of Fernanda's recipes with customers at their Mesa restaurant and from a food truck that pops up at farmers markets and events around the Valley.
Both serve a robust selection of stuffed arepas and other delicious Venezuelan specialties. But if you're in the mood to satisfy your sweet tooth and fill up on a rich, hearty meal at the same time, the Patacon with sweet plantains is a must. Once you taste it, this craveable dish will leave you coming back for more.
